Welcome to Carterville Instrumental Music Program!
This handbook has been written to familiarize you with the various aspects of the band program. Use this handbook throughout the year as your first source of reference when you have questions about band. Please take the time to read it thoroughly and completely. Click here for a printable copy of the acknowledgement form.
Todd Norrington—Carterville Band Director
To understand the roles and responsibilities of band parents and students, several things should be understood about band:
● Band is elective. Students choose to be enrolled in band, so complete participation is expected.
● Attendance at special activities is required. A single student’s absence at a performance or rehearsal could potentially ruin the event for the others participating. (How to apply for an excused absence is located in this handbook. See "Attendance")
● Students are responsible for obtaining all equipment for class. This includes their instrument and all essential accessories.
● Be prepared. Learning cannot take place if one does not have the proper equipment or if one has not practiced his or her part.
Carterville Unit #5 Mission Statement
The Carterville Unit District #5 will provide excellence in the basics, commit to maintain a strategic plan, foster self-esteem, create an environment to stimulate thinking, and instill a sense of accountability on the part of students for decisions and actions. The schools will provide a quality curriculum incorporating practical application of skills. The curriculum shall enhance student’s abilities in preparation for an ever-changing world. The district will make a commitment to communication and promote involvement among schools, community and family.
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Philosophy of Music
Every aspect of music is important and should be emphasized at various stages in a student’s development. I want every student to become the most proficient musician and performer that he or she is capable. Through the program (5-12 instrumental music), I hope to instill a strong sense of self-discipline, self-motivation, and an inner drive for excellence in everything each student does. I hope to generate an attitude of success, striving to focus all of the student’s skills and abilities to the common good of the band. Music offers a unique opportunity to challenge each student cognitively, affectively, and physically. It provides for emotional expression and has a positive impact on individuals, families, and community.
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Performing Ensembles
In order to be a member of the band, you must be able to play a band instrument, or qualify for the color guard. Since this is an elective course, you must agree to comply with all the rules and policies of the band. All Band members must sign up for band both semesters (except color guard).
Marching Band:
*Marching band is required of all high school students enrolled in band. We will have open auditions for students not enrolled in band & CJHS students. The band performs at pre-game and halftime during each home football game and marches in several area parades.Concert Band:
The concert band is open to all band members in grades 9 thru 12. The band rehearses first hour Monday through Friday. The season officially begins in November following the last home football game. Specific concert dates are listed on the attached music calendar.Jazz Ensemble:
Membership is open to all high school students who qualify by audition. Auditions will be held in early November and rehearsals are then held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (time TBA). The jazz ensemble will perform at least one formal concert and attend/perform area festival/clinics.Pep Band:
All band members participate in pep band. CJHS students may audition or be asked to play based on instrumentation needs (similar to marching band) and will perform at all home basketball games. The performance schedule will be distributed in November.Color Guard:
All Color Guard members are also considered members of the Marching Band, (even though they do not have to sign up for the class) and must reach the same expectations of other Marching Band members. To become a member of the Color Guard students must go through an audition process in the spring for the following year. The audition process will include four or five practices to learn the basics of flag twirling, and a routine to perform for the audition. Attendance at each audition practice will give students bonus points that are added to the final score on the judge’s sheets. The decision of the judges on audition day is final.*Required performances of the Marching Band include all home football games, football playoff games, and Parades. Attendance is mandatory for all rehearsals and performances.
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Equipment Needs
Each student must bring to class everyday: a sharpened pencil, a 3-ring binder, clear top loading sheet protectors, notebook of paper, their instrument in good working condition (percussionists-stick bag), & assigned music.
Uniforms:
The school will provide marching uniforms with the exception of band shoes and black socks. Marching Shoes "Dinkles" must be purchased through the Carterville Band Boosters at a cost of $26.00.Attitude:
Those students who have a positive mental attitude, regardless of their individual skills, will always have a place in the Carterville Band. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive and you are not doing your personal best to make the group successful, you should not be a part of this organization. In fact, students who do not project an attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to change their personal perspective or else leave the organization. Those who have pride in themselves will generally project a positive mental attitude. Characteristics of a positive mental attitude include a generally cheerful outlook toward rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and maintenance of equipment and facilities, and an eagerness to do what is necessary to be successful. In short, the total band member is someone who is always willing to give their best for the good of the organization.Instrument Care:
School-owned instruments become the responsibility of the student to whom they are issued (2003-2004 Unit #5 School Instrument Check Out Forms are available from Mr. Norrington). Any damage other than normal wear and tear will be repaired at the student's expense. Individual instruments must always be maintained in top playing condition. Always show the director your instrument before taking it in for repairs. Remember that horseplay can cause damage to instruments and equipment. Be careful with your own instrument, place it out of harm's way if it is necessary for you to put it down, and never play around with or play on anyone else's instrument.(Back to Table of Contents)
Private Lessons
Private lessons are the key to developing an outstanding musical organization. Students who study their instruments privately with a professional show rapid improvement in individual musicianship. As these students improve, their excitement towards practicing increases, they continue to improve, and they become a stronger contributor to the overall success of the band. Private instruction has a great impact on the individual student and on our band program both this year and in the future. I will gladly assist you, if needed, in selecting a private instructor. The key to satisfactory results from private instruction is to start as soon as possible.... SO START NOW!
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Grading Policy
1500 Points Possible
15 Performances 50% 750 Points
Class Work/Assignments/Testing 20% 300 Points
Rehearsal Participation 20% 300 Points
Daily Class Participation 10% 150 Points
Performances:
Attendance at performances is mandatory.Class Work/Assignments/Testing:
Proper attire for all marching and concert events is also required.
Students are expected to stay for the duration of the performance event/ concerts in uniform.
Students are expected to show proper concert etiquette.
Students receive points toward this grade by completing written and playing assignments and by scoring well on tests and quizzes.Rehearsal Participation:
Preparation of concert and marching music, including scales and etudes.
Class work assigned by the Director including stage set-up, cleaning band room, folding programs, etc.
Students receive points towards this grade by participating positively in after school rehearsals. Students showing up late or leaving early will not receive full credit for rehearsal points.Daily Class Participation:
Bring all necessary materials to rehearsal: proper footwear, mouthpiece, reeds, sticks/mallets, valve oil, cork grease, flip folder, lyre, etc… items that pertain to your instrument.
Band members are expected to attend ALL REHEARSALS.
Students receive points towards this grade by participating positively in classroom activities. Bring all necessary materials to rehearsal: proper footwear, mouthpiece, reeds, sticks/mallets, valve oil, cork grease, flip folder, lyre, etc… items that pertain to your instrument.Grading Scale:
NO GUM, FOOD OR DRINKS ARE PERMITTED IN THE BAND ROOM.
NO DOING OTHER SCHOOL WORK DURING BAND CLASS.
Instruments must be in proper playing condition.
If an instrument is in the shop, a written note from a parent or vendor telling when it will be ready must be presented to the Band Director.
Students must be responsible for their OWN music and bring it to class.
A = 93-100(Back to Table of Contents)
B+ = 92
B = 91-84
C+ = 83
C = 82-76
D+ = 75
D = 74-68
F = 67-0
How to Apply for an Excused Absence
- An excused absence does not earn participation points.
- All excused absences have opportunity for make-up points.
- Students must obtain "Request For Excused Absence" form from director.
- The form must be turned in 1 week before the rehearsal to be missed.
- The form must be turned in 2 weeks before the performance to be missed.
Each rehearsal and performance is worth a certain amount of points toward a student’s grade. An unexcused absence from these events will earn the student a zero for that grade.(Back to Table of Contents)
Unexcused absence from rehearsal or class will result in the loss of participation points. Unexcused absence from a performance is unacceptable and will result in the loss of a letter grade for each one missed.
Attendance
In order to maintain a quality performance ensemble, the marching band requires that some time be devoted to rehearsal after school hours. Every effort will be made to keep after school rehearsals to a minimum, and to accommodate students in other school related activities. These will be handled on a case-by-case basis. I am very flexible when approached early with potential conflicts. However, BAND STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO GIVE BAND PERFORMANCES AND REHEARSALS FIRST PRIORITY WHEN CONFLICTS ARISE. These events are naturally part of the grading process. The only excused absences will be severe illness or death in the family. A note must be turned into the director as soon as possible to have the absence excused. Excused absences for other school functions will only be allowed at the discretion of the director.
Policy for Absences:
ATTENDANCE FOR REHEARSALS AND CONCERTS/PERFORMANCES IS REQUIRED. After school employment is NOT considered a sufficient excuse for missing scheduled practice times. Other problems such as illness or family emergencies should be discussed with the Band Director. Attendance will be monitored and will be a part of the quarterly grade. Written excuses from the parent/guardian, teacher or coach is to be presented prior to each rehearsal for tardiness, early departure or absences at least one week in advance. Excused absences include medical appointments, unavoidable teacher makeup work, illness (with clinic or parent/guardian note). Excuses will not be accepted after the fact. WORK SCHEDULES WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED AS AN EXCUSED ABSENCE.(Back to Table of Contents)
Carterville High School Policy states that three unexcused tardies equals one unexcused class absence; and three unexcused class absences gives you a failing grade for the quarter. The rehearsal schedule is normally set well in advance, allowing students to plan other activities and obligations around the established schedule. Punctuality is a trait that will serve you well in any endeavor. Plan to arrive well in advance of the beginning of rehearsal -- do not try to sneak in at the last second. It is essential that we make efficient use of the rehearsal time we have. This can only happen when every band member is present and working to improve. The band member that misses rehearsal cannot improve, and the other band members around them have a less effective rehearsal due to the absence. We all depend on each other to "carry our fair share of the load" in order for us to achieve any level of proficiency. Rehearsals are never cancelled due to inclement weather. We will not usually rehearse outdoors in the rain, unless it is just drizzle or intermittent light rain. In the event of steady rain, we will rehearse indoors and go out at the first opportunity. Students should dress for the weather. Not having the proper attire is not a satisfactory reason for having a poor rehearsal. Students should wear low-top tennis shoes and socks for rehearsals. This is important in that the style of marching step we use requires that the foot and ankle be permitted to move freely.
- Respect Other People’s Property—Sharing of instruments is not allowed.
- Treat Others As You Expect To Be Treated
- Be respectful to others at all times.
- Use of foul, abusive, or inappropriate language will not be tolerated.
- Be in your seat and ready to play one minute after the bell rings (field rehearsals—attendance block one minute after bell).
- Take care of the band room and all school owned equipment.
- Gum, Candy, Food, and Drink are not allowed with instruments.
- This list is not all inclusive, but it does serve as a guide for the student. Basically, just use common sense and do the right thing.
- 1st Offense Verbal Warning.
- 2nd Offense One detention.
- 3rd Offense Two detentions and meeting with parent(s).
- 4th Offense Dismissal from band until meeting with parent(s) and principal.
- 5th Offense Dismissal from band for one quarter (nine week period).
In the event a student blatantly and/or maliciously causes a serious classroom disruption, the severe disciplinary clause will take effect and the student will immediately be taken to the principal’s office, and serve the forth offense consequence.Marching - General Rules:
Stands Procedure:
- If you bring food or drinks in the band room, please use the trash cans. If you make a mess, clean it up. If this is not done, we will stop allowing food and drinks in the band room. No gum in the band room or at rehearsals at any time.
- Always take your uniform parts home (shoes, gloves, navy band shirt, etc.). The uniform hat should be turned in after each wearing. Do not leave equipment (instrument, sticks, flag) out in the band room.
- Equipment should be stored in its proper place or taken home for practice.
- Make sure your name is on all equipment (shoes, instrument case, bag, etc.). Section leaders -- check each person in your section to make sure they have all parts to their equipment, especially on performance days.
- You should remain in full uniform at all times at performances. Instructions will be given as to changing out of uniform. You will need your navy band shirt at all performances.
- All band members are to remain until the band is dismissed. At some games we will march out as a unit.
- Following any performance, you should hang your uniform on the proper hanger and numbered slot in the trailer. The Uniform will be inspected for proper hanging—pants are commonly NOT hung properly.
- Leave your valuables at home -- jewelry, etc.
- Always wear our navy marching shirt under your uniform.
- Purses on trips may be put on the trailer. Do not ask a chaperone to carry your purse. You may ask them to keep money for you.
- Flip-folders and music should be taken to all football games.
- Do what the chaperones ask. They are there to help you.
- Keep your language clean! You never know who might be listening.
- NO SCREAMING!
- If you must miss a rehearsal for a doctor's appointment, you must bring a note from your parents/guardian prior to the appointment or from the doctor following the appointment.
- Each section is responsible for keeping any area used (Instrument Storage Area, band trailer, band room) free from clutter. Each section will also have a designated clean-up day for the entire band room. A schedule will be created by student leaders.
- Remember you are a CLASS act. Do not do anything that would have to be explained. Always conduct yourselves as ladies and gentlemen.
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- No food or drinks in the stands before halftime.
- Do not wear hats in the stands or with your uniform (except regular marching band hat). If it is cold, stocking caps, ear muffs, or something for warmth is permissible.
- There is to be no random playing of instruments at any time. Any section or solo cheers should be cleared with the director prior to the game.
- At home games, sit in your assigned section. Sit in your assigned section the entire game -- even after third (3rd) quarter break.
- No outsiders allowed in the band sections. This includes alumni.
- Your concession break will be during the third quarter. You must be back in the stands in time to play at the end of the third quarter. Don't be late, watch the clock carefully. You will lose your break the next week if you are late.
- NO SCREAMING !!!!! Yell for the team — not at each other.
Transportation Policy
It is the policy of the Carterville Unit District that all band members ride school transportation to away events. Students may ride home with parents or a relative providing they have submitted the transportation release form prior to leaving for the event. This form is available from the director.
Bus Rules and Procedures:
Travel Guidelines (Overnight Trips):
- DO NOT change buses. You must ride the same bus to which you are assigned.
- On school buses, try to keep noise to a minimum. No loud screaming, radios, etc.
- DO NOT play your instruments on the bus.
- DO NOT throw anything out of the windows. Keep arms, head, etc, inside windows.
- Answer roll call for yourself only. Keep the noise level down. Roll may be called by chaperones each time we load the bus.
- Couples—remember this is a band function—not a date!
- Put trash in garbage bags. On short trips, take trash off the bus when you leave.
- When we return, be sure to close windows. This will help the drivers.
- At away events, you must return with the band, unless YOUR parents pick you up in person. YOUR parents must sign you out with the band director at the trailer.
- Home games are over at approximately 9:30 p.m. I will give you a time that we will return to school on away trips. It will be within 15 minutes of that time one way or the other. Please have your rides here at school.
- Be courteous, do what chaperones ask and thank the drivers and chaperones when we return.
- Do not use the emergency exit doors unless an emergency arises. They are not to be used for loading and unloading the bus without the drivers permission.
- Get your equipment off the trailer when we return to the school. YOU must put your instrument and equipment back in the band room. If you ride home with your parents, make sure you have someone take care of your (school) equipment.
- Otherwise, take your instrument and belongings home from the performance location.
PARTICIPATION IN FUND RAISING CAN SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE THE AMOUNT THAT A STUDENT WILL PAY.
- Follow instructions of Directors or chaperones at all times. If you don't understand, ask.
- No boys in girls' rooms, no girls in boys' rooms -- EVER.
- No unnecessary moving around on the bus. No standing in seats, sitting on backs or arms of seats on the bus. Do as the bus driver asks when on the bus.
- Ask chaperones or the bus driver for help in regards to the first aid kit on each bus.
- Be quiet and cooperative during roll call on buses.
- We will make regular stops—use restrooms on buses as little as possible.
- You are responsible for any damage to your room.
- Know who the chaperone for your group is, and their room number.
- Make no charges to your room (movies, phones, etc.). Use pay phones.
- Take no souvenirs from your room, restaurants, or any other place of business.
- Make no calls between rooms after lights out, unless you are calling a chaperone to report a problem.
- Don't leave your room unlocked.
- No alcoholic beverages, non-prescription drugs, or any controlled substances (which includes tobacco and alcohol) are to be taken, bought, or consumed during the trip. Directors should be notified in writing if you are taking any prescription drugs.
- No changing buses or rooms without directors permission.
- Leave non-essential valuables at home.
- Watch your belongings. If you put something down unattended, there is an excellent chance it will not be there when you return.
- Profanity is not a part of this band. Make sure your language is never offensive.
- Curfews will be announced and strictly enforced.
- Personal radios and cassette players with headphones only are allowed on the bus. The volume should not be loud enough to be heard outside your head.
- Behavior of students will be exemplary at all times. There is no excuse for rude, obnoxious acts.
- All school rules are in effect throughout the duration of any trip.
- Kindness and courtesy work miracles in almost every situation. Remember that PLEASE and THANK YOU cost you nothing and yet are highly valued, especially when received from a teenager.
- There shall be no action for which an explanation is necessary. If you think someone might ask you "Why did you do that?" then don't do it.
- Violations of these rules will result in disciplinary action that could include removal from the organization, confinement to your room for the duration of the trip, or being sent home.
- Detailed information sheets, showing departing and estimated arrival times, are distributed prior to any trip.
Some students will be able to pay for the entire cost of the trip with money earned through fund raising activities. All students are expected to complete the necessary forms for the trip and to conduct themselves in accordance with trip rules.
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Band Council
The band council is the "student government" for the band program. It is made up of elected officers, appointed officers, class representatives and section Leaders. The council will help to ensure the smooth running of the Carterville Band program. They will provide input and make recommendations to the director from time to time concerning the types of activities, new ideas, and situations affecting the band’s daily routines.
President:
This office is elected by a majority vote of the band members. The office is mainly concerned with the leadership within the program. Not only should this person be a strong musician and leader, but also a good representative of the band in all public situations. Among his or her many duties is to ensure that the band carries out their assigned duties in the absence of the director or other staff. The president will preside over meetings of the band council and should be tough enough to remind other leaders and students of their responsibilities to the group.Vice President:
The vice-president must be capable of serving in the absence of the president. He or she should assist the director whenever possible. He or she should provide student leadership at all times.Librarian:
The librarian will be appointed by the director. Selection will be made on the basis of desire, conscientiousness, attentiveness, and loyalty. The duties of the librarian shall be: Index, sort, and file all music. Issue music in folders. Make extra parts assigned by the director. Only the librarian and the director will be permitted the use of the library files.Class Representatives - Drum Major(s) - Section Leaders:
The section leaders must insure that each member of the section has proper materials and equipment for the rehearsal or performance. It shall be the duty of the section leader to correct musical or drill problems among the section when the situation can be easily handled without the director. The section leaders are responsible for leading sectional rehearsals at times designated by the director. The section leaders should offer student leadership at all times.(Back to Table of Contents)
Individual Opportunities
IMEA District & All-State Band, IHSA Solo and Ensemble Contest, and other Honor Band activities provide students with the opportunity to excel individually on their instrument and to receive recognition for their musical achievements.
Honor Bands:
Auditions for IMEA District Band, are held in mid October. Ninth and Tenth grade students are eligible for District Level Bands. Students in grades 11 - 12 are eligible for All-State Band, Orchestra, and Jazz Band. Students perform required music, scales, and sight-reading. The audition process ranks the students from Southern Illinois on their specific instruments. Students selected for one of the District ensembles prepare and present a concert. The top students from the District Level Bands, receive All-State status and present a concert during the Illinois Music Educators Association State Conference. Often, colleges and universities use membership in these organizations as partial criteria for music scholarship consideration. Other "Honor Band" activities may be available to Carterville Band students during the school year, either based on audition or application. One such event is the Heartland Honor Band sponsored by Southern Illinois University. Students will be notified of these events.Solo and Ensemble:
Solo and Ensemble Festival, held in March or April, also gives students an opportunity to excel individually or in small instrumental groups. Students may select their own music (with the Directors approval) or the Director will assist in the selection. There is an entry fee for each participant. A student may enter a maximum of 4 events at $5.00 per event. Our Band will enter a brass choir/ensemble (s) and woodwind choir/ensemble (s) this year. This gives the student a chance to work on different types of music as well as work in smaller groups. The event is very eficial to the development of our total band program.(Back to Table of Contents)
School Song
Boosting the Old High School
Faithful and true-hearted, we will boost our dear old High,
We revere her and defend her, and her colors proudly fly.
We will stand for her united, and her deeds we’ll proudly tell,
Her colors streaming, lad faces beaming
So here’s a cheer for her who we love so well.
CHORUS
Joyous and ever loyal, we will boost our dear old High.
Let every voice ring, let every hear sing
There’s no time to grieve or sigh.
It’s ever onward our course pursuing,
May defeat ne’er our ardor cool.
But united we will boost for her, our old High School.
II
Honors she has taken, on the track and with the ball,
May she always rank the highest and her colors never fall.
There’s no other that can match her,
When her team is on the field (floor)
Her girls the sweetest, her boys the fleetest,
So here’s a cheer for her who we love so well.
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